Learn how to create a media kit that helps your book stand out. Perfect for indie authors looking to land press, podcast invites, and more.

If you’re a self-published or indie author looking to get your book into bookstores, podcasts, libraries, or local media—you need more than just a great story. You need to show up like a professional. A well-crafted media kit can help you do exactly that. This post breaks down everything you need to know, including a free downloadable template to get started.

What Is a Media Kit for Authors?

A media kit is a professional PDF or web-based document that introduces you and your book to potential partners—like bookstores, event organizers, podcast hosts, librarians, and reviewers. It gives them everything they need to know in one polished place, so they don’t have to dig.

Think of it as your book’s digital resume.

Why Every Indie Author Needs a Media Kit

Whether you're pitching a book signing, reaching out to the press, or trying to land a feature on a podcast, a media kit saves time, builds credibility, and gives you control over how your book is represented. It tells people: I’m serious about my work.

Without it, you’re making it harder for people to say yes.

What to Include in Your Author Media Kit

Here’s a checklist of essential items to include:

✅ Author Bio

Write a short but powerful paragraph that tells people who you are. Keep it relevant, confident, and warm. No need to start with “aspiring” anything—if you’ve written a book, you’re an author.

✅ Book Synopsis

This is your book’s elevator pitch. Use 3–5 sentences to describe what your book is about and what makes it unique. Make sure it matches what’s on your back cover and sales pages.

✅ High-Resolution Book Cover

Include a high-quality JPEG or PNG of your book’s cover. If you’re sending your kit as a PDF, embed the image. For digital kits, provide a download link.

✅ Author Headshot

Add a professional photo of yourself. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it should be clear, well-lit, and reflect your personal brand.

✅ Press or Praise

Got reviews, media features, or testimonials from readers? Include 2–3 blurbs to show social proof. Don’t worry if you’re just getting started—even a strong reader quote from Amazon or Goodreads works.

✅ Contact + Purchase Info

Make it easy for someone to get in touch or order your book. Include:

• Email
• Website
• Purchase links
• Social media handles

✅ Bonus (Optional but Powerful):

• Sample Q&A (for interviewers)
• Press release (if doing a formal launch)
• Details about other books or future titles

Best Practices for Formatting

• Keep it to 1–2 pages max.
• Use clean fonts and branding that match your author identity.
• Save it as a PDF for easy sharing.
• Consider creating a dedicated media kit page on your website for downloads.

Ready to Make Yours?

🎁 Download a free media kit template to get started, along with other tools to help you promote your book like a pro:
👉 👉 Access tools here 

Engage with Us!

📚 Join the Indie Reader Society—a free book club and reader community that celebrates bold, emotional, and powerful stories. Whether you're a reader or writer, you're welcome here.
👉 Sign up or learn more 

🎧 Prefer audio? Listen to author tips and indie publishing insights on Spotify:
👉 Author’s Mic on Spotify